Traveling, Pickleball, and Fitness

Things are incredibly busy in my life. That’s something that can get out of control, but typically, in the right context, busy is good for me. It’s normal. I’m sure most people reading this blog are incredibly busy too. But that presents unique challenges from a pickleball and fitness perspective.

I played twice last week. My normal Tuesday meet-up and then I got to play with some different people on Friday. Both times had some incredibly fun, competitive games. The more I play, the more I want to play.

There are some challenges though.

Ankles.

Well, my ankles aren’t the challenge. I’m glad I have ankles. I can’t imagine playing pickleball without ankles.

However, my ankles are SORE. Like, really, really, sore. My legs were sore after the long Montana trip, but the ankles have been way more of a problem. I really don’t know why. I’ve never needed high top shoes before, and aching ankles haven’t been an issue for me in other sports (other than a break and a sprain).

My wife suggested that maybe it’s the playing surface since I’ve been playing on concrete. I guess that could be it. I’m unashamedly looking at pickleball shoes. I once considered this a step too far and now I want the shoes whether they help me or not. I mean pickleball SHOES, how cool is that?! But, I really would like my ankles to stop hurting. On Friday, I played on asphalt, and I do notice a considerable positive difference. Maybe my wife is on to something.

This video is in the category of crazy as well. I’m not quite to the “buy a ball machine” phase, but I could tell you what one costs somehow. I wonder how that happened…

Another challenge has been nutrition as I’ve been on the road a ton. Thankfully, eating keto is so much easier than it used to be, but it still takes planning and intentionality. I’m quite proud of my efforts overall, but I was avoiding the scale for a while. Monday was weigh day though and I have results for you.

The last weigh in on 9/6: 267.4

Yesterday’s weight: 263.8

Really happy with that progress overall. I’m 13.7 lbs away from my first goal of 250 and I want to reach it by Christmas. I think that’s possible, but I’m looking at a pound a week between now and then. As the kids say, LET’S GO!

I hope to update everyone soon after my session tonight. (Also, just talked to a buddy of mine, Jeff, he’s starting a league tonight. We don’t live close to one another, but I can’t wait to play him next time. He was talking smack, so I assure you, I will absolutely destroy him next time we play!;)

Until next time.

Keep dinking.

Marshall